Trying to figure out how to create barcode labels?
Barcode printing and creation can be done by anyone. But doing it right is a different question.
In this article, we will cover exactly how to do it right and a whole lot more.
Keep reading to discover the process behind barcode printing.
Product Codes
In order to make a barcode, you have to have specialized product codes that help identify and track your items in stock.
A business will usually use the Universal Product Code or Stock Keeping Unit numbers to make barcode labels. However, the best stock numbering system will depend on your specific needs.
UPC Barcode
A UPC barcode can be found on most products, and they are put on by the manufacturer. In order to get UPCs, you have to register with the Global Standard 1 to receive your package of 8-12 digit codes that will allow you to identify and track products worldwide.
If you make your own products or sell private label under your own brand, UPCs are for you. Even though they are not required by law, and you can still make sales without them, there are plenty of benefits that might sway you in their presence.
- Protects business brand from forgery and theft
- Allows sales on Amazon
- Easier to access information online, such as restrictions, type, allergens, etc
- Can be tracked within a POS system for retail
SKU Barcode
A barcode can also be made for each product based on an internal tracking system. These are referred to as custom internal SKU numbers. They are often used by retailers and e-commerce brands who have to stock items from various suppliers and want to be able to track them without getting confused.
Having your own custom SKUs offer many benefits over the previously mentioned UPCs. SKU allows retailers to generate their own labeling system that makes the most sense to their method of inventory management, sales monitoring, etc. A retailer can quickly create an SKU number via a POS system.
Once you have set up your unique product codes, you can move onto the next step of translating the codes from digital raw code to barcode format.
Create a Barcode
When it comes to making a barcode, there are a number of ways to go about it. We’ll look at two of the most popular.
POS Systems
Your current all-in-one POS system that covers sales, inventory, and business management makes it easy to create a barcode, based on each item that has an SKU or UPC.
Most modern POS systems have included inventory tools that allow you to create a barcode using the product codes. If you manage an inventory of any size, consider using a system like Square for retail.
It simplifies the label printing process and streamlines all of the business activities, including checkout tasks, payments, staff management, sales, store performance, and much, much more.
Generator Websites
Special websites allow you to translate your product codes into barcodes that you can download and save for future use.
These websites can transfer your product codes into a multitude of barcode images. All you have to do is select the barcode size, type, and enter the data.
You can select from various barcode formats, and these variations work across all devices, POS systems, and inventory as long as you select the same type of format within the scanner.
Some of these sites sell printed rolls of barcode labels that you create, but that is not for free. You can pay about $20 for 100 sheet labels. For that price, you get about 700 copy codes, printed and ready to use. This is a lucrative option for those who want to refrain from occupying themselves with label printing.
If you need just a few barcodes, you can just download the file as a .jpg, insert it into Google Docs, Word, or any other word processing program. Then, simply print it with a regular inkjet printer.
Print Barcode Labels
If you are using a POS system, e-commerce order management, or any other software for documents, you will need a printer and label rolls to print the codes out.
For this process, you can use a regular laser printer or desktop inkjet. Let’s take a look at how you can go about this.
Use Printers with Label Sheets
Any regular color inkjet printer that costs over $100 on Amazon can print crisp barcode labels and has bulk ink refill at a low price.
If you don’t already have a printer, you can pick up a base model for $50. If you need features like fax or scanning, expect to pay a little more.
Whatever you choose to do, laser/inkjet printers come in many forms and will all print proper barcode labels of all sizes. If you’re buying on Amazon, you can also acquire the label sheets there. Most of these sheets will work with all inventory management systems and POS, as long as they are properly precut.
For scanning barcodes in a VB.net application, check out ocr vb.net.
Barcode Printing Done Right
Now that you have discovered the simple three-step process behind barcode printing, you are well on your way to performing this task without hassle. The process is simple, and cost-effective as long as you know what you are doing.
Whether you choose to outsource or do it yourself – it can be done.
If you’re interested in similar articles, check out the rest of our blog.
